Manchester City Could Face Delays Due to Storms at the Club World Cup
Orlando – The Club World Cup match between Manchester City and Al Hilal could face disruptions due to FIFA’s concerns about the storm forecast in Orlando on Monday. The Chelsea versus Benfica match in the round of 16 on Saturday lasted four hours and 39 minutes, due to a delay caused by electrical storms detected near the Bank of America Stadium in Charlotte. Storms are also forecast in Orlando on Monday. City will face Saudi team Al Hilal at Camping World Cup Stadium at 9 p.m. ET. Adverse weather conditions detected within an eight-mile radius of the stadium could force players to return to the locker rooms and fans to evacuate, according to U.S. regulations.
So far, six matches in the Club World Cup have been suspended due to weather.
The Chelsea coach, Enzo Maresca, called the situation “a joke” after the match against Benfica was delayed almost two hours. Pep Guardiola was asked about the weather at a press conference on Sunday, but he was more philosophical than his colleague.“I would like the match to be played as soon as possible. But if it’s not possible here, it’s the same reason they’re suspending the other one, I’ll enter and we’ll be active and playing again.” “It’s not the ideal situation, but I grew up understanding that you shouldn’t worry about situations you can’t control. So, no problem.”“I am an extraordinary coach, but to control the lightning and thunder, I am still not good enough, I’m sorry,” he joked.
Pep Guardiola